‘Art in the Park’ memorial for Callaway art teacher
CALLAWAY - Shari Wolken taught art at Callaway Public Schools for 34 years. She died at age 74 on Aug. 12, 2020 in Cheyenne, Wyo.
To honor Wolken, friends are hosting “Shari Wolken Memorial Art in the Park,” this Sunday, Sept. 27, in Morgan Park in Callaway, 1:30-4:30 p.m.
Student artists, both past and present, are invited to display their work at the memorial.
Sue Phelps, one of the organizers, suggests people - Callaway residents in particular - search their homes for art created in Wolken’s classes to bring to the event.
“I have found as people visit with me, there is a significant amount of student art in the Callaway homes, even as the students have gone on to live elsewhere,” Phelps said.
As news of Wolken’s death spread, Phelps said former Callaway students posted photos of their art done in Wolken’s classes on the Callaway High School Friends Facebook page. “More than 120 students who replied encouraged us on to do this,” Phelps said.
At 2 p.m., there will be a memorial tribute lead by former Callaway teacher Brian Gardner with an opportunity for others to share memories. In addition, senior class paintings done during Wolken’s tenure will be available at auction.
“Every year, the senior class painted ceiling tiles,” Phelps said. “They’ve been in storage. We’re getting them down and will display them.” The tiles will be sold by silent auction with proceeds going to the Callaway Education Foundation, Inc. and Callaway High School Art Club. Bids will be accepted 1:303:30 p.m.
Local artists are welcome to display their
work as well. All artists, including student artists, need to bring their own easels, ladders or tables for display.
Sidewalk chalk will be provided for those inspired to create onthe-spot art. Masks and hand-sanitizer will be provided by the Callaway District Hospital. In the event of inclement weather, the event will move to the Callaway Community Center.
Call Sue Phelps at 308880-1484 for additional information.